- Must visit
The Whitworth
One of Manchester’s leading art galleries, known for strong modern and historic collections, major exhibitions, and a celebrated park-side setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport
Showing times and prices for May 22
Cheapest price
$168
Average price
$184
Fastest journey
2 h 6 m
Average duration
2 h 17 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
112 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport will cost around $184 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $168.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport without transferring at least 2 times.
8:20 PM2h38Leicester station (LEI)10:58 PMManchester Airport$1681One-way2 transfers- 8:50 PM2h12Leicester station (LEI)11:02 PMManchester Airport$1681One-way2 transfers
- 10:56 PM2h06Leicester station (LEI)1:02 AMManchester Airport$1681One-way2 transfers
- 6:17 AM2h25Leicester station (LEI)8:42 AMManchester Airport$1871One-way2 transfers
- 7:22 AM2h20Leicester station (LEI)9:42 AMManchester Airport$1871One-way2 transfers
- 10:56 PM2h06Leicester station (LEI)1:02 AMManchester Airport$1681One-way2 transfers
- 8:50 PM2h12Leicester station (LEI)11:02 PMManchester Airport$1681One-way2 transfers
- 7:22 AM2h20Leicester station (LEI)9:42 AMManchester Airport$1871One-way2 transfers
- 8:18 AM2h24Leicester station (LEI)10:42 AMManchester Airport$1871One-way2 transfers
- 11:18 AM2h24Leicester station (LEI)1:42 PMManchester Airport$1871One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $28.
Distance: 69 miles (112 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price | $23 Average price Cheapest | $31 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 0m Average total duration 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport is a bus with an average price of $23 (€19).
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport costing on average $66 (€53).
The fastest way to travel from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport is by train with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Manchester Airport take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester station (LEI) and Manchester Airport including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $66 (€53) compared to roughly $31 (€25) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-34.18 (€-27.62). The journey takes 2h 30m versus 2h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport trains for today, Thursday, May 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10:50 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 2h02 | 12:52 PM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, May 22 | |||||
| 6:17 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 2h25 | 8:42 AM Manchester Airport | 2 transfers | |
| 7:22 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 2h20 | 9:42 AM Manchester Airport | 2 transfers | |
| 8:18 AM Leicester station (LEI) | 2h24 | 10:42 AM Manchester Airport | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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May 22
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Why should you book Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:09, the last at 18:18. The fastest train covers the 69 miles (112 km) distance in 2h 2m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $16 (€13)
Distance 69 miles (112 km) |
Average train duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 2m |
First train 8:09 AM |
Last train 6:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $16 (€13)
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport trainsEast Midlands Railway, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Leicester station (LEI) and Manchester Airport from $16 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€23)
Northern Rail frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
$86 (€69)
Transpennine Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$109 (€88)
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€23)
West Midlands Trains frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
$168 (€136)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Manchester Airport
Things to do in Manchester Airport
Discover the best of Manchester Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester Airport trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
A major university museum with natural history, archaeology, and cultural collections. Recently renewed and widely regarded as one of the city’s best free attractions.
- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
A flagship Manchester museum exploring science, technology, transport, and the city’s industrial heritage on a historic railway site.
- Must visit
Runway Visitor Park Viewing Area
The best-known open-air spot near the airport for plane watching, photography, and seeing aircraft movements close to the runways.
- Must visit
Castlefield
A canalside conservation area with Roman roots, converted warehouses, footbridges, and highly photogenic urban scenery popular with visitors.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Manchester’s best-known creative district, famous for street art, independent character, and social-media-friendly backdrops and shopfronts.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Tart
A classic Manchester dessert with a shortcrust pastry shell, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional sweets.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A flaky pastry filled with currants, sugar, and butter, originating from Greater Manchester. It is a traditional local bake often eaten with tea.
- Gluten-free
Black Pudding
A famous north-west English blood sausage made with pork blood, fat, and oats. Greater Manchester is especially associated with excellent black pudding.
San Carlo Fiorentina Manchester Airport
An established Italian restaurant near the airport, known for polished service, steaks, pasta, and a more upscale dining setting.
Airport Pub
A well-known casual pub near the airport appreciated for hearty pub meals and excellent views of passing aircraft from the beer garden.
The Romper
A long-standing pub close to Manchester Airport serving classic British dishes, Sunday roasts, and cask ales in a traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Airport prices are above city averages, but the UK is generally moderate for travelers using chains and cards.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for fast food or a sandwich.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-25 per person at a casual sit-down spot.
- Fine dining
- GBP 40+ per person at upscale airport or hotel restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included at restaurants. If not, 10-12.5% is standard for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. No tip is expected for counter service.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Manchester Airport Station, Manchester -> Manchester Piccadilly Station, Manchester
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Bee Network buses in Greater Manchester have a GBP 2.00 single fare cap and GBP 5.00 daily cap; contactless payment is accepted on most buses.
- For airport transfers, trains from Manchester Airport Station to Manchester Piccadilly are usually the fastest option and run frequently throughout the day.
FAQs: Trains from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€23), while the average price is around $66 (€53).
The train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport takes 2h 2m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport leaves at 8:09 AM.
The distance by train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport is 69 miles (112 km).
The last train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport leaves at 6:18 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
The cheapest way to get from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Leicester to Manchester Airport offers varied scenery, transitioning from urban landscapes to stretches of picturesque countryside, including glimpses of the Peak District.
A day trip from Leicester to Manchester Airport is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 2m and exceeds the 120-minute threshold. Trains run 6 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport.
Since neither Leicester station (LEI) nor Manchester Airport are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester Airport include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Preston.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport
Leicester
Manchester
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:20 - 22:30 Saturday 05:20 - 22:30 Sunday 07:15 - 22:30
Parking
- Car Park: Short stay car park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse, Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from the Duty Manager located on the end of Platform 3/4.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle hub situated on the lower floor (old Red Star parcels area) which can be accessed via the lift located to the left of the Customer Information desk. Stands also available in main car park and station front near short stay car park.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Leicester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Coaches leave from the Station front
Most popular train connections from Leicester station (LEI)
More options for your journey from Leicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester Airport and Leicester station (LEI)
Most popular train connections to Manchester Airport
HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to Manchester AirportLeicester station (LEI) to Manchester Airport train
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